LONDON – Pepe Mel has been hired as manager of West Bromwich Albion to replace Steve Clarke.

Mel, a 50-year-old Spaniard, led Real Betis into this season's Europa League but was fired by Real Betis on Dec. 2.

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Clarke was fired Dec. 14 after four straight Premier League losses, and the Baggies were led for the last five games on an interim basis by Keith Downing and Dean Kiely. They will coach on Saturday against Southampton, while Mel watches from the stands.

A 50-year-old Spaniard, Mel led Real Betis into this season's Europa League but was fired on Dec. 2.

West Brom is 14th in the EPL at 4-7-9, four points above the relegation zone.